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Indian Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala) is popular for its taste. Explore the delightful flavors of Indian Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala) with our easy-to-follow recipe.
Elevate your culinary skills and savor the aromatic essence of this traditional dish. Try this Indian Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala) recipe today and embark on a flavorful journey through Indian cuisine.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Course: Main
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Calories: 300/serving
Materials:
Large skillet
Ingredients:
2 cans chickpeas, drained
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp chili powder
1 cup coconut milk
Fresh cilantro (garnish)
Method:
Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger. Add spices and tomatoes.
Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Simmer 15 mins. Top with cilantro.
Servings:
Indian Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala) is rich, flavorful, and comforting, with a balance of spices and a savory sauce. Pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dish and provide texture and flavor contrasts. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
Basmati Rice – Light, fragrant rice that perfectly soaks up the flavorful curry sauce.
Naan Bread – Soft, pillowy flatbread for scooping up the curry and soaking up the sauce.
Roti (Chapati) – A whole wheat flatbread that’s lighter than naan but just as perfect for dipping.
Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) – Fragrant basmati rice cooked with cumin seeds for a subtle, earthy flavor.
Pulao Rice – Spiced rice with peas, cardamom, and bay leaves, adding an aromatic touch to the meal.
Tandoori Chicken – Smoky, spiced chicken with a charred exterior that balances the chickpea curry’s flavors.
Paneer Butter Masala – A rich, creamy curry made with soft paneer cubes, offering a rich contrast to the spiced chickpeas.
Methi Thepla – A Gujarati flatbread made with fenugreek leaves, perfect for scooping up curry.
Samosas – Crispy, spiced pastry filled with potatoes, peas, and spices, adding a crunchy texture to the meal.
Mango Lassi – A sweet and creamy yogurt drink that cools the palate.
Masala Chai – A spiced tea with milk that complements the bold flavors of the curry.
Lemonade or Lime Soda – A tangy, refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the curry.
Description
Chana Masala is a hearty, spicy, and flavorful North Indian dish made with chickpeas (chana) simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato-based gravy. This dish is a staple in Indian households and is enjoyed worldwide for its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients.
The Base:
The curry starts with a tempering of onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, creating a deeply flavorful and slightly tangy base.
The Spices:
A blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and sometimes amchur (dried mango powder) gives the dish its signature warmth and complexity.
The Chickpeas:
Protein-rich chickpeas (garbanzo beans) are the star ingredient, either freshly boiled or canned for convenience.
The Texture:
The curry can be left chunky with whole chickpeas or slightly mashed for a thicker consistency.
The Serving Style:
Chana Masala is traditionally enjoyed with basmati rice, naan, roti, or puri, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Benefits
Chana Masala is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
Rich in Plant-Based Protein:
Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Heart-Healthy & Nutrient-Dense:
Loaded with iron, folate, and potassium, it supports heart health and overall well-being.
Good for Digestion:
The fiber in chickpeas promotes healthy digestion and gut health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Spices like turmeric and ginger have powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free:
This dish is a wholesome, allergy-friendly meal that suits various dietary needs.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?
A: Yes! While freshly boiled chickpeas give the best texture, canned chickpeas work well and save time. Just rinse them thoroughly before use.
2: How can I make Chana Masala spicier?
A: Increase the red chili powder, green chilies, or garam masala to enhance the heat level.
Q3: Can I make this dish without onions and garlic?
A: Yes! For a no-onion, no-garlic version, use hing (asafoetida) and tomatoes to maintain the depth of flavor.
Q4: What’s the difference between Chana Masala and Chole?
A: Both dishes are similar, but Chole (Punjabi-style) tends to have a thicker, darker, and slightly tangier gravy due to ingredients like tea leaves, tamarind, or amchur powder.
Q5: How can I store and reheat Chana Masala?
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freeze: It freezes well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the consistency.
Q6: Can I make Chana Masala in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
A: Yes! Using an Instant Pot reduces cooking time, and a slow cooker allows flavors to deepen over time.
Q7: What can I serve with Chana Masala?
Rice: Basmati rice or jeera rice (cumin rice).
Breads: Naan, roti, puri, or paratha.
Side Dishes: Raita (yogurt dip), pickles, or a simple cucumber salad.
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